German prosecutors are investigating a regional lawmaker from the Alternative for Germany party over suspected violations of export bans to Belarus, following searches and a formal summons for questioning on 4 February 2026. The case centres on an alleged attempt to reroute heavy machinery through falsified documentation. Authorities say the inquiry concerns compliance with EU sanctions regimes. The investigation has drawn attention to political links with sanctioned jurisdictions. No charges have yet been filed.
Searches and questioning focus on suspected sanctions evasion
Jörg Dornau, a member of the Saxony state parliament for Alternative für Deutschland, was questioned after searches were carried out at properties linked to him. Investigators allege that in 2022 a telescopic loader was declared at customs as destined for Kazakhstan, while its actual destination was Belarus. German media reported that the discrepancy triggered a probe into possible sanctions breaches. Details of the case were outlined in a Deutsche Welle report on the suspected export violation. Authorities have not commented on potential penalties pending the outcome of the investigation.
Business ties to Belarus under scrutiny
Dornau is known for business activities in Belarus, where he has co-managed an agricultural enterprise since 2020 with local partners. Media reports have alleged the use of labour by Belarusian political prisoners at the company, claims that have intensified scrutiny of his commercial links. In 2024, the Saxony parliament fined Dornau €20,000 for failing to disclose income and business activity connected to Belarus. The current investigation adds a criminal dimension to earlier transparency violations. Prosecutors are examining whether business interests facilitated sanctions circumvention.
Political ramifications for AfD and sanctions policy
The case has implications beyond the individual lawmaker, given AfD’s longstanding opposition to sanctions on Russia and Belarus. Democratic parties in Germany argue that the investigation underscores the need for tighter oversight of financial and commercial links between politicians and sanctioned states. Lawmakers have called for stronger disclosure requirements and enforcement mechanisms at both federal and state levels. The inquiry also highlights risks posed by subnational actors in enabling sanctions evasion. Officials stress that sanctions enforcement depends on consistent application across all jurisdictions.
Wider concerns over EU sanctions enforcement
German authorities note a broader pattern of attempts to bypass EU export controls via third countries and falsified end-user declarations. Analysts warn that involvement by elected officials can undermine public confidence in sanctions regimes. The case has renewed debate over penalties for public office-holders found to facilitate prohibited exports. As the investigation proceeds, prosecutors say cooperation with customs and financial regulators remains central. Further steps will depend on evidence gathered from searches and documentation.
